climb aboard the uss north carolina

Discover America's military history aboard one of World War II's fiercest battleships, the USS North Carolina. Set in quiet dignity along the Cape Fear River, the USS North Carolina is a symbol of state pride, a WW II memorial, and an iconic landmark of Wilmington's riverfront. Explore the battleship's command centers and living quarters while envisioning daily life on and below her deck during wartime. Points of interest are well-marked throughout the ship, making self-guided tours highly informative and engaging. Man the controls of the ship's engines. Steer the helm to navigate enemy waters. Fire the battleship's huge anti-craft cannons. Aptly nicknamed the "Showboat," this celebrated battleship of North Carolina is an awe-inspiring Wilmington highlight.

Details

Prices -

Adults (12+): $14, Children (6-11): $6, Seniors and Military: $10 (Groups of 10 or more enjoy a 15% discount.)

Hours -

Events

Activities

Self-Guided Tours

Museum

Family Movie Nights

Private Group Tours

Educational Lectures

Reenactments

FAQs

Why is Battleship North Carolina so Famous?

The USS North Carolina is historically significant to American history. Commissioned on April 9, 1941, she was considered the world’s greatest sea weapon. During World War II, NORTH CAROLINA fought in every key naval offensive in the Pacific and earned 15 battle stars - the most of any American battleship. In the Battle of the Eastern Solomon’s in August 1942, the Battleship’s anti-aircraft barrage saved the ENTERPRISE, establishing the fast battleship as protector of aircraft carriers. After the ship was decommissioned in 1947 and was to be scrapped in 1958, North Carolina schoolchildren raised $330,000 in the Save Our Ship (SOS) campaign, and the state purchased the battleship from the U.S. Navy. The USS North Carolina arrived to its current Wilmington location in 1961 and is now berthed in dignity across the river from downtown Wilmington.

What Are some fascinating things to see on the Battleship?

Experience the incredible history of Battleship NORTH CAROLINA through self guided tours. Experience the oral stories, photographs, exhibits and mementos of the crew and officers who bravely fought in the Pacific during WWII. Start your journey with a movie in the auditorium, explore the exhibit hall, follow the arrows around the Ship and climb ladders to explore 9 levels of history. Discover a deeper connection by steering the ship, starting the engines or firing the guns. In 2 hours you can see and feel what it was like to live and work on this massive battleship.